The Iconic Neon Aesthetics of the Hit Netflix Series Stranger Things

The Iconic Neon Aesthetic of Stranger Things

The hit Netflix series Stranger Things has become a pop culture phenomenon known for its nostalgic 1980s setting. One of the most instantly recognizable aspects of the show's aesthetic is its prominent use of neon lighting. From the title sequence to the sets and locations, neon plays a key role in establishing the unique look and feel of Stranger Things.

Neon and 1980s Nostalgia

Neon lighting was ubiquitous in the 1980s, used extensively in signage, decor and fashion. By prominently incorporating neon into the show, the Duffer Brothers evoked 1980s nostalgia. The neon palette serves as a visual shorthand, immediately placing viewers in another era.

The prominent use of neon also paid homage to 1980s pop culture. Science fiction and horror movies made extensive use of neon, from Blade Runner to The Terminator. This lighting technique gives Stranger Things a stylistic connection to the beloved genre movies that inspired it.

Establishing the Setting

Neon lighting plays an integral role in establishing and reinforcing the small town setting of Hawkins, Indiana.Local hangouts like the Palace Arcade and diners have neon signage, typical of small town America in the 80s. Even ordinary places like Hopper's cabin and Joyce's home have neon accents, rooting them in the time period.

The Starcourt Mall, introduced in season 3, is a neon extravaganza. As a shining beacon of consumerism, the mall employs neon everywhere from its signage to the storefronts within. Starcourt Mall demonstrates neon's cultural significance in the 80s, tying the aesthetic directly to the setting and themes.

Neon and the Supernatural

Stranger Things also uses neon to represent the supernatural invading the ordinary world. The alternate dimension of the Upside Down is cloaked in ominous neon red and green hues. Neon becomes a visual cue signaling the presence of the paranormal.

The striking neon purple associated with Eleven and her powers is another example. Her vibrant pink dress in season 2, in contrast to the earth tones worn by other characters, serves as a constant reminder of her otherworldly abilities.

Style and Nostalgia Working Together

Neon works on both a surface stylistic level and a deeper thematic one in Stranger Things. On the surface, it immediately sets the tone, look and feel of the series. At the same time, it calls back to shared cultural touchstones like 1980s sci-fi. The dual function of neon both grounds the series in nostalgia and establishes its own visual brand.

Notable Neon Accents

Some standout uses of neon in Stranger Things include:

• The red neon "Hawkins" sign used in the title sequence
• Joyce's colorful Christmas lights used to communicate with Will
• The Starcourt Mall's glittering neon Palace sign and interior lighting
• The neon "hideout" where the kids play Dungeons and Dragons
• Benny's Burgers' neon signage and accents inside the diner
• The neon "Open" sign at Melvald's General Store

Impact on Fashion and Set Design

The extensive use of neon influenced many aspects of the show's aesthetic. Costume designer Kimberly Adams incorporated neon prints and colors into many character's wardrobes. The sets made use of era-appropriate neon accents in furnishings, paint colors and lighting fixtures.

Neon became a key element of Stranger Things' promotion as well. Posters, merchandise and other advertising highlighted neon to instantly signal the show's connection to 1980s style and pop culture.

Neon Noir

Stranger Things' neon-drenched style draws inspiration from films like Blade Runner, pioneering the "neon noir" science fiction subgenre in the 80s. Like those influential movies, Stranger Things uses neon to bring together Sci-Fi concepts, horror elements and nostalgic style.

The Spell of Nostalgia

While many factors have contributed to Stranger Things' success, its transportive neon-lit aesthetic is a huge part of what draws in viewers. Those glowing neons cast a spell of 1980's nostalgia and invite the audience into a familiar, yet strange world.

Moving forward, the show's neon visual vocabulary will likely continue to evolve. But it will always be a quintessential part of the series' identity and appeal. When viewers see those bright glowing neons, they know they're back in Hawkins.

FAQs

Why is neon so important to Stranger Things' aesthetic?

Neon lighting was very popular in the 1980s and is used extensively in Stranger Things to establish the retro setting and evoke 1980s nostalgia. The prominent use of neon visually roots the series in the decade.

What does the neon color palette represent?

The neon colors establish the ordinary 1980s setting of Hawkins, while also representing the supernatural elements of the Upside Down world. Neon acts as a visual cue for the presence of paranormal phenomena.

How did the use of neon impact other aspects of the show?

The extensive use of neon influenced costume design, with neon prints and colors incorporated into character wardrobes. It also shaped set design, with era-appropriate neon accents added to furnishings, paint colors, and lighting fixtures.

What other 80s movies used neon noir style?

Stranger Things' neon-drenched aesthetic drew inspiration from 80s sci-fi films like Blade Runner that pioneered the "neon noir" style, blending science fiction, horror and retro neon lighting.

Why does neon contribute to the show's popularity?

The prominent use of neon casts a spell of 1980s nostalgia that strongly appeals to viewers. The retro neon aesthetic is a huge part of what draws audiences into the world of Stranger Things.